By 2025 the number of people in the U.S. age 65 and older with Alzheimer's disease is estimated to be 7.1 million. New research however provides hopeful signs that new dementia cases are actually declining, and better heart health efforts may be making the difference. Read the CBS articleHERE.

Mindfulness-Based Art Workshop January 29th

This monthly workshop, conducted in a studio environment, is designed to foster self-care practices, respite, and enjoyment for participants.

The topic for January's workshop is:
Compassionate Communication With Self and Your Loved One, click HERE for more details.

Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Care Seminar

OPICA is proud to provide the opportunity to become a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) through the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP).

This 8-hour workshop for health care professionals is the required seminar for CDP® certification. Please visit the NCCDP website at www.nccdp.org to learn more about the process or feel welcome to join us just for the education.

As an undergrad I had the opportunity to interview two artists in their early 70's. This piqued my interest to work with older adults. When I came to OPICA as a volunteer and saw the marginalization of seniors, especially ones with dementia, I decided to stay!

My Favorite Things About Working at OPICA

I love when I connect with the members and ultimately make them smile. I think human interaction is very important and I enjoy forging relationahips with the members here. I also love the music, which is a really big part of my life. It's great to see how the music evokes different emotions from the members, and how they interact with the music.

The Gift of Friendship

From morning coffee and brain fitness exercise, through making art together and sharing lunch, to afternoon music and dancing, OPICA is a place of friendship.

"Friendship is a sheltering tree," wrote Coleridge, and you are the roots of that tree, sustaining the friendships at OPICA. Because our modest fees cover only half our costs, OPICA would not exist without you as our partner. Please consider making a GIFT OF FRIENDSHIP to OPICA, click HEREto DONATE NOW. And thank you for your friendship.

7 Tips for Reducing Sundowning

Sundowning syndrome causes many with dementia to have trouble sleeping at night. In turn, fatigue is a common symptom of sundowning, causing daytime dozing and inactivity that can create a vicious cycle. Learn how to reduce symptoms, click HERE.

De-Stress Bath Time for

Persons with Dementia

For clients with dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, baths and showers can be upsetting for several reasons. Understanding common facts for dementia clients can arm CAREgivers with the ability to resolve fear, reduce frustration, and elevate safety for their loved one. Read moreHERE.